American Airlines
has reinstated the Boeing 787 Dreamliner and 777 on its routes between Los Angeles International Airport ( LAX
) and Miami International Airport
(MIA). The 787 will be operating each day a week with 33 flights between the cities this month. The widebody aircraft will be operating a total of 61 flights in December.
In September,
American Airlines discontinued the operation of its widebody aircraft
, on its high-traffic route between LAX and MIA. During that time, American Airlines utilized its fleet of narrowbody aircraft for this route. However, these planes do not feature the premium cabin options Flagship First and Flagship Business, which frequent fliers prefer for a luxurious travel experience.
Aircraft |
Total Flights |
Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner |
33 |
Boeing 777-300ER |
26 |
Boeing 777-200 |
2 |
Data for December 2024, according to aviation data and analytics provider Cirium.

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American Airlines previously removed its widebody aircraft between LAX-MIA
In September, the airline made a strategic decision to remove its widebody aircraft from service on the routes connecting two of its busiest hubs. This change followed the summer travel surge, during which passenger demand typically peaks. After this period, American Airlines transitioned to exclusively using its narrowbody aircraft for the route.
There were discussions regarding the airline’s decision being due to its financial performance concerning the premium cabin, Flagship First and Flagship Business, on its domestic flights. Speculating that American Airlines was struggling to maintain profitability with these premium offerings. Rather than using its widebody aircraft on domestic routes where these premium services were underperforming, the airline opted to utilize these larger aircraft on its international markets.

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American Airlines’ Flagship First and Flagship Business
The airline’s premium cabins give passengers the most comfortable and exclusive travel experience. They provide travel essentials and skincare products from diverse beauty brands like Joanna Vargas and Relevant. Its lie-flat seats are made with premium bedding and a cool-touch dual-sided pillow.
Passengers can choose when they would like to enjoy their multi-course meal, complete with the airline’s exclusive wines. American Airlines partnered with award-winning chef Sam Choy to inspire its meals.
- Meal service on flights over 900 miles during meal times
- Meals by Sam Choy, James Beard Award winner and creator of Pacific Rim Cuisine
Flagship First
American Airlines offers an exceptional travel experience with its Flagship First cabin, the airline’s most exclusive service. Exclusively on the Boeing 777-300ER, this luxurious cabin features only eight seats that prioritize privacy and comfort.
In Flagship First, passengers can unwind where each seat is fully lie-flat, allowing travelers to relax completely during the flight. With direct aisle access, guests can move about freely without disturbing fellow passengers. The cabin includes premium amenities and personalized services designed to improve the overall experience. Whether for work or leisure, travelers can expect excellence when flying in this elite cabin.
Photo: American Airlines
Flagship Business
Flagship Business is a premium cabin available on all the airline’s widebody aircraft. American Airlines 777-300ER stands out with the highest number of Flagship Business seats, accommodating a total of 52 passengers. This aircraft is well-regarded for its spacious layout and luxurious amenities, ensuring that travelers can work or relax in comfort during their journey.
Next is the 777-200, which features 37 Flagship Business seats. While it offers fewer seats than the 777-300ER, the 777-200 still provides an excellent travel experience, with a focus on comfort and service excellence. Lastly, the Dreamliner, known for its modern design and advanced technology, offers 20 Flagship Business seats. This aircraft emphasizes enhanced passenger comfort, with lower cabin altitude and improved air quality, making it an appealing choice for long-haul travelers.

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Future plans for American Airlines’ Dreamliners
This year, the airline unveiled its highly anticipated Flagship Suite, which is available on its Airbus A321XLR and 787-9 aircraft. While the Flagship Suite is not yet available on the popular LAX-MIA route, passengers can experience the suite on select long-haul international flights.
The introduction of these suites enhances passenger comfort and luxury, providing travelers with an elevated flying experience. Each suite is designed to offer privacy, featuring a sliding door that allows for an exclusive environment. Inside the suite, passengers will find a chaise lounge seating option. This relaxing seating arrangement allows passengers to recline for a nap or enjoy in-flight entertainment. Additionally, the suites come equipped with ample personal storage space, making it easier for passengers to keep their belongings organized and within reach.

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“We are enhancing the customer experience across their entire journey with American,” American’s Vice President of Customer Experience Julie Rath said. “The arrival of new long-haul aircraft and the customized seat design of the Flagship Suite seats will offer customers a truly private premium experience on our long-haul fleet.”
With the introduction of the new aircraft, American Airlines is set to significantly increase its premium seating. By 2026, the number of premium seats is expected to grow by more than 45%. Notably, the 787-9 aircraft will include a total of 51 Flagship Suite seats.
Flagship Lounge and Flagship First Check-In
Both hubs, Los Angeles International Airport and Miami International Airport, offer travelers access to American Airlines’ Flagship Lounge and Flagship First Check-In services. These products are only offered at four airports worldwide and are designed to enhance passengers’ overall travel experience by offering a range of amenities and personalized services.

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Flagship Lounge
The Flagship Lounge provides a welcoming atmosphere for travelers. It features comfortable seating areas designed for relaxation and productivity. Guests can unwind or focus on work before their flights away from the hustle and bustle of the airport.
Before boarding, passengers can enjoy a selection of premium food options, including international cuisine and regional dishes reflecting local flavors and culinary traditions. For those who are pressed for time, the lounge offers a convenient grab-and-go snack service, ensuring no one has to skip a meal, even during a busy travel schedule. In addition to food offerings, the Admiral Lounge provides a selection of beverages. Guests can sip on refreshing sparkling wine, explore local craft beers, or choose from a range of spirits and complimentary cocktails, all served in a relaxing setting.

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Flagship Lounge, Los Angeles International Airport
Terminal 4, near gate 40, open daily from 4:30 a.m. to 1:00 a.m.
Flagship Lounge, Miami International Airport
Concourse D, near gate D30, open daily 05:00 to 23:00.
Flagship First Check-In
Flagship First Check-In provides a seamless and luxurious experience, including dedicated check-in counters, priority security screening, and additional concierge services.
PHOTO: American Airlines
At LAX, Flagship First Check-In is located at Terminal 4. Passengers should use the exclusive curbside entrance, which is open from 04:30 to 00:45. At MIA, passengers can access Flagship First Check-In at the North Terminal in Concourse D, at curbside door #2. It is open from 04:30. to 22:30.
Qualifying passengers who can use Flagship First Check-In
- Passengers flying on American in Flagship First or Flagship Business Plus on a qualifying international or transcontinental flight.
- Passengers flying on qualifying international flights operated by American, regardless of cabin, with AAdvantage Executive Platinum status or AAdvantage Platinum Pro status.
The Dreamliner’s introduction to the airline
Nearly 10 years ago, in January 2015, American Airlines proudly took delivery of its first 787, the 787-8 variant. This event marked a significant milestone in the airline’s history, as the Dreamliner is renowned for its advanced technology, fuel efficiency, and enhanced passenger comfort.
Following months of anticipation, the aircraft made its inaugural flight a few months later, in May. The flight route connected Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) to Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD). This initial journey showcased the capabilities of the new aircraft and represented American Airlines’ commitment to modernizing its fleet and providing passengers with a superior flying experience. The introduction of the 787 has since been a key factor in the airline’s operations, allowing it to expand its domestic transcontinental flights, long-haul international routes, and improve overall service.

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